Abstract: The taxonomic position of the monotypic conifer Pilgerodendron uvi ferum，an endemic species in southern South America，has been disputed on the ba sis of phylogenetic analysis using molecular data. These results suggest that P. u viferum is a species of Libocedrus. Phylogenetic analysis using morphological dat a appears to uphold its separate status. Characters of leaf cuticles are investig ated and compared between four related genera including Pilgerodendron and furth er dis-tinctions between these are reported. The merits of these conflicting dat a sets for the taxonomy of the genus Libocedrus s. l. are discussed. It is conclude d that the evidence for a merger of Pilgeroden-dron with Libocedrus is weak and that both morphology and biogeography support the separation of the two genera.

Key words: Cupressaceae, Pilgerodendron uviferum, leaf cuticle, Florin ring.